Day 01
Old Cairo's Sacred Landmarks
- Your tour representative will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo and transfer you to discover the Babylon Fortress, also known as the Wax Palace of Babylon Castle. This ancient fortress, located in Cairo, is considered one of the largest fortresses of the Roman civilization in Egypt and one of the largest fortresses built by the empire. It also served as the center around which the city of Fustat was built.
- Then, move on to the fascinating wonders of the Hanging Church, which was built in the 3rd century and the beginning of the 4th century. The Hanging Church of Cairo rises majestically on the ancient tower of the Babylon Fortress. With an interior full of symbolism and icons, it has become one of the most visited monuments in Egypt's magnetic capital. Its essence, blending Roman, Egyptian, and Babylonian architecture, makes it a place where legend and history blur.
- Next, visit the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, which holds a special place among the other Coptic churches because it is linked to the path of the Holy Family during their escape from King Herod to the land of Egypt. The church is named after Saints Sergius and Bacchus, who, according to Christian belief, were martyred in the region of Rusafa in Syria.
- No one can be in Coptic Cairo without visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue, also called El-Shamieen Church, now located behind the Hanging Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was once the center of many celebrations, congregations, and prayers, although it is no longer in use today. The origin of the building is uncertain. Some believe it was once a Coptic Orthodox Church that was sold to members of Egypt's Jewish community in 882 AD. The synagogue is named after Abraham ibn 'Ezra, the Jewish religious scholar and philosopher.
- Afterwards, proceed to Amr Ibn El-Aas Mosque, the very first mosque built in Egypt. Then continue to other important mosques and high places of worship for the Islamic faith in Cairo. With 80 percent of its population following Islam, Cairo is home to amazing architecture built for worship. Appreciate the artistic mosques of Islamic Cairo on this tour.
- Later, return to your hotel to conclude the tour.
